With first big break, ‘HyGab’ love team hopes to build own identity

While scoring their first big break as a love team does come with pressure, Gab Lagman and Hyacinth Callado couldn’t be prouder and more excited to see the fruits of their hard work materialize before their eyes.

“I feel so proud for the both of us. It’s all overwhelmingly surreal. To see everything come together—even the little things, like the posters—really warms my heart. This means so much to me,” Hyacinth said at a recent press conference for the romantic drama series “Chasing in the Wild.”

The 16-episode series, now up on the streaming app Viva One, is a small-screen adaptation of the third installment of author Gwy Saludes’ “University Series” novels on WattPad. The previous two, “The Rain in España” and “Safe Skies, Archer,” were headlined by Heaven Peralejo and Marco Gallo, and Krissha Viaje and Jerome Ponce, respectively.

Now, they play support to Hyacinth and Gab, whose screen partnership is fondly called, “HyGab.”

“We’re like family. We ask them for advice. I’m happy that they’re happy for us. They have been very supportive. We have our own stories, scenes. I can’t believe that we’re leading the third book. We’re just thankful for the trust,” Gab said.

Something deeper

Directed by Thop Nazareno, “Chasing in the Wild” follows Sevi (Gab), a carefree student athlete, and Elyse (Hyacinth), a spoiled cheerleader for a rival team and university. After his first heartbreak with his best friend, Sevi believes he will never love again. But then he meets Elyse. Before they know it, their innocent banter turns into something deeper.

“It has been such a journey, preparing and learning new things for the show, like cheerleading. I didn’t really do sports growing up. But it was fun and it helped me learn more about myself and my capabilities,” Hyacinth said.

That they feel pressure to deliver is actually a good thing, Hyacinth and Gab agreed. It could only mean that they both care deeply about the project.

“The pressure comes and goes. But I know that the pressure comes from knowing that I have big responsibilities to give justice to the story, its different aspects. I’m grateful because we care about making the project work,” Hyacinth said.

“It’s our biggest project so far. I have been waiting for something like this for a long time. I just want to do our best, and I hope we can sustain the momentum created by the first two books,” Gab said. “If the fans end up liking and appreciating our show, it’s all good.”

Focused

Both actors have been undergoing workshops for months. The training not only helped polish their acting, but it also helped improve their screen rapport.

“We have gotten closer the past few months while doing workshops. I’m just happy to work with her and see her grow as an actress,” Gab said. “I hope we can grow as a love team that has its own identity.”

And as for the prospect of real-life romance? “I don’t really want to think about that right now,” Hyacinth said. “We’re just focused on this project. But the foundation of our friendship is there. I’m happy that Gab and I are a team. I feel very safe with him. I’m grateful for that.”